Norway’s strong embrace of Tesla, driven by its EV-friendly policies, contrasts sharply with Europe’s broader backlash against Elon Musk, as seen in the context of UniCredit’s pursuit of Commerzbank despite German opposition. Tesla’s sales in Norway surged 54% year-on-year in June 2025, with a 115.3% increase in Model Y registrations, following a 213% spike in May, reinforcing its dominance in the world’s most EV-friendly market. This success is fueled by Norway’s incentives like VAT exemptions, discounted road and parking taxes, bus lane access, and robust charging infrastructure, aligning with the country’s push to phase out gasoline and diesel cars. The Tesla Model Y’s competitive price, large luggage space, high ground clearance, all-wheel drive, and tow hitch cater to Norwegian needs, as noted by Christina Bu of the Norwegian EV Association (NEVA).
However, Musk’s political activities, including his $250 million support for Trump’s campaign and endorsement of Germany’s far-right AfD party, have sparked controversy. In Norway, 43% of over 15,000 EV drivers surveyed by NEVA cited political reasons for avoiding Tesla, reflecting awareness of Musk’s actions. Norwegian PM Jonas Gahr Støre has called Musk’s interference in foreign politics “worrying,” echoing sentiments in Germany, where leaders like Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck view Musk’s actions as attempts to weaken European regulation. This mirrors the German government’s resistance to UniCredit’s takeover bid for Commerzbank, highlighting a broader European skepticism toward external influence, whether from Musk or foreign banks like UniCredit. Despite this, Norway’s practical demand for EVs and Tesla’s established market presence continue to drive sales, defying the continent’s growing distrust of Musk.